Which two processes form the zygomatic arch?

• A. The frontal process of the zygomatic bone and the zygomatic process of the temporal bone.
• B. The temporal process of the zygomatic bone and the zygomatic process of the temporal bone.
• C. The maxillary process and palatine process.
• D. The lacrimal bone and the sphenoid bone.

Answer: (B)

Forming the zygomatic arch relies on the two projections that connect the zygomatic bone with the temporal bone. The zygomatic bone extends a forward-facing projection called its temporal process, and the temporal bone has a zygomatic process that meets it. When these two projections articulate, they create the zygomatic arch, the curved bridge of bone that runs along the side of the face and helps form the lateral wall of the orbit. The other options involve processes from bones that do not meet to create this arch (such as parts of the maxilla related to the palate or orbital floor, or the lacrimal and sphenoid bones), so they don’t form the arch.